The Nation Publishing Co. Limited is proud to stand alongside its media colleagues across Barbados as they unite today for the One Love Jamaica Mediathon, a televised fundraising event supporting hurricane relief and recovery efforts in Jamaica, following the devastation caused by Hurricane Melissa.
Produced by Jewel Forde and anchored by well-known broadcasters Gaynelle Marshall and Caroline Reid, the Mediathon brings together The Nation, Starcom Network, Barbados Today, CBC TV and UWI TV for a joint humanitarian effort.
Broadcasting live from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., the Mediathon will feature compelling discussions, interviews, performances and powerful stories that highlight the urgent needs in Jamaica and support for the Jamaican people. Throughout the live broadcast, Barbadians are encouraged to call in and make a donation in support of the Hurricane Melissa Relief Fund.
Hurricane Melissa’s impact on Jamaica has left thousands displaced, damaged critical infrastructure and created urgent humanitarian needs. The recovery effort will require sustained support from across the region and today’s Mediathon represents an important step in Barbados’ contribution to that process.
In the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Melissa, teams from Nation News and Starcom Network News were deployed to Jamaica to document the impact. The Nation’s Associate Editor Natanga Smith provided riveting firsthand accounts of the devastation she witnessed, while photographer Jameel Springer captured haunting images of homes destroyed, communities flooded, livelihoods lost and families displaced.
“When our teams went to Jamaica, there was comprehensive coverage of the destruction, the damage and the distress of people trying to pick up the pieces of their lives,” said Noel Wood, Nation Group Chief Executive Officer.
Responsibility
“Our coverage revealed the humanity of the situation and compelled us to act. This Mediathon is our way of giving back and lending a helping hand to our fellow Jamaicans in need. As a leading news organisation, we bear witness to tragedy but as Caribbean people,
we have a responsibility to respond with compassion and action.”
Anthony Greene, General Manager of Starcom Network, noted the importance of media collaboration.
“We have seen our indigenous media fulfil the role of taking the lead in providing verified, authentic and accurate coverage. At the same time, we have an opportunity to show deeper sensitivity to the needs of those affected and to use the collective strength of our reach to engage audiences and drive fundraising efforts in support of our Caribbean neighbours.
“It shows that there are times for the media to join hands in solidarity and this is indeed one of those times.
I thank the University of the West Indies as well for taking the initiative in bringing this Mediathon together,” he said.
All proceeds from the Mediathon will be directed to the Barbados Red Cross, which will manage the transfer of funds to Jamaica for disaster relief and rebuilding projects.
Barbadians wishing to contribute can make donations via telephone, bank transfer or deliver cash contributions on location.
“We encourage every Barbadian to tune in this afternoon and give what they can. Whether it’s $5 or $500, every contribution matters.
Let’s show Jamaica that they are not alone. The Nation Cares and we know Barbados cares too,” Wood said.
The One Love Jamaica Mediathon will air simultaneously across all participating media platforms from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. today.
Tune in to CBC TV, UWI TV, or follow participating media houses on their respective platforms. (PR)
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